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Surgery

Surgery for voice problems is designed almost exclusively to restore voice function. Excluding a few conditions (including cancer), the emphasis of surgery is placed on laryngeal function rather than removal of tissue. Even when a cancer must be removed, careful consideration is given to preserving or minimizing the impact on voice quality, so long as it does not compromise the chance for a cure.

Because of the focus on voice quality, laryngeal surgery tends to be a surgery where “less is more". Limited, precise interventions tend to accomplish more, with less risk, than aggressive surgery. Procedures are also very often paired with voice therapy to optimize recovery and prevent recurrence of disease.

There are dozens of different procedures performed on the larynx. The most common fall into two categories: